On 26th March 2025, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), organised a webinar for media practitioners titled “The Role of the Media in Democratization: Enhancing Civic Engagement and Public Participation, and Inclusive Governance.”
The event, which forms part of CAPPA’s commitment to ensuring peaceful and nonviolent elections under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria II (EU-SDGN II) initiative, brought together over 25 journalists from Borno, Imo, Benue and other states from around the country
In his welcome address, Akinbode Oluwafemi, CAPPA’s Executive Director, observed that “democratic values and the civic space are being tested around the world.” He emphasized the importance of this for Nigeria, especially given the country’s challenges with democracy.
Represented by Zikora Ibeh, Assistant Executive Director at CAPPA, Mr. Oluwafemi added: “The media is the heartbeat of democracy, and ongoing conversations are essential to strengthen democratic institutions, especially electoral processes, in order to ensure transparency and protect rights.”
Also speaking at the event, Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), reinforced this point during his presentation. He cited concerns over the attempts to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, highlighting the broader implications for women’s representation in the National Assembly.
Furthermore, the rights activist and former student union leader emphasized that the ongoing political strife in the Upper Chamber underscores a significant challenge for democracy, noting the importance of allowing public discourse and investigation into allegations without pre-emptive judgment or intimidation.
“If we are saying democratization, this is something that the media needs to stand up for,” Arogundade said, stressing the necessity for accountability and transparency. In his view, two key issues stood out for the media: the validity of the allegations against the senator and the potential power dynamics at play concerning her position.
He insisted that any removal of elected representatives outside due process undermines the electorate’s right to know and their right to representation. Arogundade referenced several frameworks that can aid the media in promoting good governance and accountability, including the 1999 Constitution, the African Charter of Democracy, Elections, and Governance, and various transparency legislations.
“These tools create a mandate for the media to actively engage in civic engagement and inclusive governance,” he said.
Harping on the essential role of the media in a democracy, he referenced a famous quote from former U.S. President Thomas Jefferson suggesting he would prefer the media without a government over the reverse due to its potential to govern society.
Drawing parallels with traditional African societies, he noted the role of communication figures like the town crier, who ensured that information was disseminated to the public, engaging communities in dialogue and participation.
“The media must not forget the traditional model. Everyone should have a say. Public participation is crucial in a democracy, whether through advanced technologies or community gatherings,” the media expert added.
In conclusion, Arogundade observed that “the media holds a profound responsibility in safeguarding democracy and fostering an environment where citizens can actively participate in governance and hold their representatives accountable.”
